Crossword Genius

Reddish-brown, something cheesy? (8)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

chestnut

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'reddish-brown' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

I cannot understand how the rest of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for chestnut that I've seen before include "Wood" , "Stale joke or cliche" , "Conker tree - 11 of 10" , "Horse coat colour" , "Item for stuffing" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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